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Tradicion Hispana Dance Troupe

Tradicion Hispana Dance Troupe services the
university by performing at the WIU campus as well as the city of Macomb and surrounding
communities. Macomb does not have a
Hispanic population; therefore, Tradicion Hispana Dance Troupe brings to the
area unique Hispanic dance performances and cultural activities that serve as
educational programs to the community. Without this dance troupe, the exposure
to the Latino culture would not be available in the university and surrounding
area. As to the individuals that
participate in the dance troupe, it gives them a sense of pride to express
their heritage. It is important to keep
those traditions on the forefront so they will not be forgotten by the next
generation. The dance team is a very diversified group. This is an indication of how other students
have embraced our culture. We have very
few students that have the knowledge of the traditional Hispanic dances
therefore; we rely on these students to teach the others. The creative process passes on through the
students from one academic year to the next.

Latin American Student Organization (LASO)

The Latin American Student Organization’s objectives are to
provide a scholastic, cultural, political and social environment; to nurture
unity and pride among Latino students at WIU and to concentrate on the
recruitment of Latino students to Western Illinois University. In the fall, LASO has a retreat held at Camp
McBride in Burlington, Iowa as leadership training for students. This is also a bonding experience between old
and new officers and members.There are
several activities held during the 2 day stay that teach team building and
leadership skills and to foster closeness between the students. In the spring, an officer’s training retreat
is held in the Multicultural Center to introduce the new officers; to their own
particular officer’s duties, the university policies, renew their constitution
and to acquaint them with the Robert’s Rules of Order.An etiquette luncheon is part of the retreat
and is held at the University Union.
The etiquette luncheon is taught by a professor in the Dietetics,
Fashion Merchandising and Hospitality Department, to instruct students in the
proper table manners, etiquette and provides a foundation for student’s when
they go on job interviews or attend formal functions. LASO has many events
during Hispanic Heritage Month, Homecoming and throughout the academic year.

International Friendship Club (IFC)

The International Friendship Club goal is to promote cultural awareness, respect, and understanding among all students through various cultural, educational, and social activities. Western Illinois University students, faculty, staff, and community members' benefit from the cultural exchanges and educational experiences the International Friendship Club provides. The International Friendship Club largest even is the International Bazaar that is in its 38th year. It starts preparations during April for the event in March of the following year. The International Bazaar is one of the largest and most popular student run events at WIU. It is an event that allows out International students to showcase their cultures to the university and Macomb surrounding communities.